Cardinals Prepare for QB Overhaul After Combine

Arizona looking to move on from Kyler Murray and Jacoby Brissett, exploring free agent and draft options

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The 2026 NFL Combine was a busy time for the Arizona Cardinals, who are preparing for major changes at the quarterback position. With indications that both Kyler Murray and Jacoby Brissett will not be back next season, the Cardinals are exploring all options to find their next starting QB, including free agents like Malik Willis and Jimmy Garoppolo, as well as potential draft picks like Ty Simpson and Sawyer Robertson. The team also held meetings with several top edge rushers, suggesting the #3 overall pick could be used on a defensive playmaker.

Why it matters

The Cardinals are at a crossroads after a disappointing 2025 season, with their two starting quarterbacks from last year potentially on the way out. How they handle this transition at the game's most important position will be crucial in determining the team's direction and competitiveness going forward.

The details

Reports from the NFL Combine indicate the Cardinals are preparing to move on from both Kyler Murray and Jacoby Brissett. Murray, the former #1 overall pick, is expected to either be traded or outright released, while Brissett, who was signed as a bridge QB, could also be on the move if the right offer comes along. To replace them, Arizona is exploring options in free agency like Malik Willis and Jimmy Garoppolo, while also doing their due diligence on quarterbacks in the upcoming draft like Ty Simpson and Sawyer Robertson. The team also met with several top edge rushers, suggesting the #3 overall pick could be used on a defensive playmaker rather than a QB.

  • Kyler Murray is expected to be gone by October 5, 2025.
  • Jacoby Brissett is under contract in Arizona through next season.

The players

Kyler Murray

The former #1 overall pick who has been the Cardinals' starting quarterback since 2019, but is now expected to be traded or released.

Jacoby Brissett

The veteran quarterback who signed with the Cardinals last offseason to be a bridge starter, but could also be on the move if the right trade offer comes along.

Malik Willis

A free agent quarterback who has been heavily linked to the Cardinals as a potential replacement for Murray and Brissett.

Jimmy Garoppolo

Another free agent quarterback who is gaining traction as an option for the Cardinals, providing more experience than Willis at a lower cost.

Monti Ossenfort

The Cardinals' general manager, who has shown a willingness to trade the team's high draft picks in the past.

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What they’re saying

“Who knows if we're even going to be picking at number 3”

— Monti Ossenfort, General Manager (Arizona Cardinals)

What’s next

The Cardinals will need to make decisions on the futures of Kyler Murray and Jacoby Brissett in the coming months, while also determining their plan at quarterback through free agency and the draft.

The takeaway

The Cardinals are facing a critical offseason as they look to rebuild at the most important position on the field. How they navigate this transition will go a long way in determining the team's competitiveness and direction for the foreseeable future.